Why YOU matter in your training

Too many beginner runners try to squeeze themselves into a one-size-fits-all plan or compare themselves to others on social media. Marathon training however is so unique for each and every one of us. It should reflect your life, your goals, and your starting point.

So why do YOU matter in your training?

And how do you make sure that your training is truly yours?

• Know your current fitness - be honest about this. Where are you starting? Have you ever run before? Can you currently jog for a few minutes? Have you ever done any form of endurance sports before? There are no right or wrong answers to these questions. A marathon isn’t just for the naturally fit or fast. It’s for anyone willing to put in the work - slow and steady, one step at a time.

  
  

• Consider your age and health - your body is going to respond differently at the age of 40 than it will at the age of 20. This is in no means a weakness, it just means you will need to allow more time for recovery, pay attention to any aches and perhaps consider seeing a doctor before starting any training plan.

  
  

• How much time do you have - can you realistically run 3 - 4 times per week? Will mornings or evenings work best for you? Training for a marathon takes time, its not just the running, but the stretching, recovering, eating well, and sleeping. You’ll need a schedule, support from family and friends and the ability to allow yourself some grace when things don't quite go to plan. Marathon training doesn't have to be perfect, and it very often isn't, but it does have to be consistent and flexible.

  
  

• Think about upcoming events or work and family commitments - do you have any holidays, family commitments or work deadlines between now and marathon day?

  
  

• Know your 'Why?' - this is the big one! Ask yourself why are you doing this? Is it to prove you can, for your mental health, to show your children what can be achieved with hard work, in memory of someone, or to tick it off your bucket-list. Your 'why' will be what gets you out of the door when motivation is low. Remember your why and revisit it when things get tough.

  
  

• Make it your marathon - don't compare your marathon journey with any one else's. Don't worry if you are not covering the distances others are, that you are running slower, or walking. You are still a runner, you are still training for a marathon and you all get to cross that finish line. 'You' are the most important part of your training, not the gear you are wearing, the plan you are following or your finish time.

No matter your fitness, your age, your weight, your speed, or your background:

You belong here.

You’re allowed to dream big.

You’re allowed to take your time.

And you are absolutely capable of becoming a marathoner.

To learn more about marathon training, especially for those training for their first marathon, visit

www.twentysixpointtwo.co.uk